So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. (Gen. 39:22)
My last year of college was not an easy one. I was burnt out on school, my friendships felt strained, and conflict with my church back home was taking its toll on me. As a result, my grades began to suffer. One day, I met one of my professors for lunch to talk about why I was doing poorly in his class. I soon found myself pouring my heart out to him about how life just felt too difficult to manage. He listened empathetically, and I’ll never forget how he responded. Instead of giving me a free pass in his class, he said, “I will work with you when you’re struggling, but I’m also going to push you to finish strong.” His words, though unexpected (and admittedly not what I wanted to hear), were just what I needed to finish the work and get a much better grade in his class. I was able to reclaim responsibility for my education because I had his support and encouragement.
Joseph once again found himself taking responsibility for the work given to him, but this time in prison. Although he was falsely imprisoned, Joseph did not allow his work to suffer, and he diligently oversaw what the prison warden gave him. When we are in situations that seem difficult or undeserved, we must remain attentive in all the work that we do.
Remain diligent in all of your work, regardless of your situation.
Allison Krupp is a resident pastor at College Wesleyan Church in Marion, Indiana, and pursuing ordination. She enjoys having conversations over coffee and laughing loudly with friends.
© 2021 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
